Coping with pre-result stress

As a Chartered Tax Accountant or Chartered Tax Advisor, the anticipation of exam results can be a highly stressful period. The journey to obtaining these prestigious qualifications is demanding, and the wait for results can add significant pressure. However, managing this stress effectively is crucial for maintaining both your professional performance and personal well-being. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to navigate this anxious time successfully.

Acknowledge Your Stress

Firstly, it’s important to recognise that feeling stressed about your results is entirely normal. Acknowledging your anxiety rather than suppressing it can help you address the issue more effectively. Understand that you're not alone in this experience; many of your peers share similar feelings.

Stay Busy and Productive

Keeping yourself occupied can divert your mind from the stress of waiting. Engage in productive activities such as:

Professional Development: Take this time to enhance your skills. Attend webinars, read up on the latest tax regulations, or start a new certification course.

Networking: Connect with colleagues and industry professionals. Networking can provide support and potentially open new career opportunities.

Personal Projects: Invest time in hobbies or projects that you’re passionate about but often neglect. Whether it’s a DIY project, painting, or gardening, these activities can be very therapeutic.

Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle

Your physical health significantly impacts your mental well-being. During this waiting period, it’s vital to maintain a healthy lifestyle:

Exercise Regularly: Physical activity is a proven stress reliever. Whether it’s a daily run, yoga, or a gym session, find something that keeps you active.

Eat Healthily: Avoid excessive caffeine and sugar.

Sleep Well: Ensure you get enough rest. Good sleep is crucial for managing stress and maintaining cognitive function.

Practice Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques

Mindfulness practices can help you stay calm and centred. Consider integrating these techniques into your daily routine:

Meditation: Even a few minutes of meditation each day can reduce stress levels.

Breathing Exercises: Simple breathing techniques can help manage anxiety.

Mindfulness Apps: Apps like Headspace or Calm offer guided meditations and relaxation exercises tailored for stress relief.

Plan for All Outcomes

Preparing for various scenarios can alleviate anxiety. Consider the following:

Positive Outcome: Reflect on how you will celebrate your success and the next steps in your career.

Unexpected Outcome: Think about alternative plans and how you might address any setbacks. Having a contingency plan can make you feel more in control.

Seek Support

Don’t hesitate to reach out for support if you need it:

Talk to Peers: Sharing your feelings with colleagues who understand your situation can be very comforting.

Professional Help: If the stress becomes overwhelming, consider speaking to a mental health professional.

Mentors: Seek advice and reassurance from mentors or senior professionals who have been through the same process.

Stay Informed, But Don’t Obsess

While it’s good to stay informed about the timing of your results, constantly checking for updates can increase anxiety. Set specific times to check for updates rather than doing so obsessively.

Keep Perspective

Finally, try to keep things in perspective. While these results are important, they do not define your entire career or your worth as a professional. Reflect on your achievements thus far and remind yourself that setbacks are a natural part of any career.

Conclusion

Dealing with pre-results stress is challenging, but by acknowledging your anxiety, staying productive, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, practicing mindfulness, planning for all outcomes, seeking support, staying informed without obsessing, and keeping perspective, you can manage this period more effectively. Remember, your journey as a Chartered Tax Accountant or Chartered Tax Advisor is a marathon, not a sprint. Stay positive, stay focused, and trust in the hard work you’ve put in.